Description

Crocus sativus, the famed saffron crocus, is a stunning autumn-blooming species with pale lilac-lavender petals and three vivid crimson-red stigmas. It is the source of the world’s most valuable spice. Flowering in October, it brings unexpected beauty and harvest potential to Irish gardens when most bulbs have long faded.

It thrives in free-draining, sandy soils with full sun. Ideal for raised beds, herb gardens, or protected borders. While it prefers warmer, sheltered locations, it can perform reliably in Irish conditions when given good drainage and summer rest. Grow it in clumps for visual effect or in rows if harvesting saffron is the goal.

Crocus sativus pairs nicely with late-season companions like Colchicum autumnale, Sternbergia lutea, and Nerine bowdenii, creating a dramatic end-of-season flourish. Best avoided in poorly drained soils or exposed areas.